The 1800s: Doughnuts were introduced in the United States by Dutch settlers who called them "oliebollen", which translates to "oil spheres." The late 1800s: The ring-shaped doughnut became popular, and the first doughnut machines were invented.

However, a filled version is also called a Long John in some parts, so both names—Long John and éclair—are essentially interchangeable.

Minneapolis and St. Paul have a fantastic doughnut scene. Some of the Cities' best shops have been around for decades, wafting the sweet, tantalizing scents of fried dough, sugar, and cinnamon over their neighborhoods across generations.